Ford president and CEO Alan Mulally said: “Mr. Ford had a profound impact on Ford Motor Company. The company extends its deepest sympathies to the many members of the extended Ford family at this difficult time. While we mourn Mr. Ford’s death, we also are grateful for his many contributions to the company and the auto industry.”

Ford served Ford Motor Company for 57 years as an employee and board member, playing a pivotal role in shaping the company for more than half of its 110-year history.

William Clay Ford’s son, William Clay Ford, Jr., who is executive chairman for Ford Motor Company said: “My father was a great business leader and humanitarian who dedicated his life to the company and the community. He also was a wonderful family man, a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him, yet he will continue to inspire us all.”

Darryl Lewis of Eastpointe tweeted, “RIP Lions Owner William Clay Ford. Thank you for bringing the Lions back to Detroit.”

Facebook user Neil Baxer of Rochester Hills said: “Ford was a great man and a leader who did the family name well. No buts. He may have been a better car man than a football man and that doesn’t matter.”

OP commenter Lance said: Detroit lost a good man. One who committed to this community we call the Detroit area and did a lot of good in his life. He leaves a foot print that few have left or will ever leave.”

According to the Ford Motor Company, funeral services will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent in the name of William Clay Ford to the Henry Ford Museum at 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn, Mich. 48124 or to Dr. Scott Dulchavsky’s Innovation Institute at Henry Ford Health System at 2799 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit, Mich. 48045.

In honor of Mr. Ford’s memory, Ford Motor Company locations in the U.S. will lower their American and Ford flags to half-staff for a 30-day period. Ford locations outside of the U.S. will follow local custom.